My first experience with DUI's Buoyancy Control System (BCS) came during a recent television shoot in the Cayman Islands. Our dive team was using Aquanaut SPUs - a new self-propulsion system that attaches a motor and battery pack directly to the diver's tank.
While the SPUs will work with a number of different BCs, Aquanaut inventor Chris Donahue specified DUI systems with wing-style air cells for the shoot. The BCS, with its dual cinch bands and four-point attachment harness, would provide maximum control and comfort.
Having owned and used several brands of modular BC/harness systems, I took quickly to the BCS. It is a one-size-fits-all harness with fully adjustable shoulder, waist, crotch and chest webbing. Initial adjustment took a leisurely half-hour, and the instruction manual provided clear directions.
Because the SPU provided 14 pounds of ditchable weight, I didn't use the integrated weight pockets during filming. For more conventional dive missions, the pockets could be added in less than a minute to provide up to 40 pounds of weight capacity. The pockets attach with DUI's patented Double Pull-Cord Lanyard and remove easily with a tug of the bright-yellow cable handles.
Buyers have the choice of a wing-style or wraparound air cell. I have always preferred wings and took readily to DUI's design, which featured a pair of retracting shock cords to minimize bag profile and air shift. The wings are available in 35- or 58-pound lift capacities.
One additional feature that impressed me was the new Auto-Retracting Attachment System, which adds a pair of shock cords that attach mounted stainless-steel clips to the shoulder straps. Clip on gauges or lights and they'll always be within easy reach but never in the way. Other features include the adjustable shoulder D-rings, a removable crotch strap and the option of adding an inline alternate air source to the inflator.
The most impressive feature of the BCS is its versatility. The systems performs well in conditions ranging from Caribbean reefs to cold-water wrecks. It can be custom-fit to your exact body size and shape, configured for a specific diving mission, then easily refitted for additional uses.
SUMMARYA modular, fully adjustable BC system that can be configured for a wide variety of recreational and technical diving missions. Suggested retail runs from $498 to $598, depending on features. For more information, see your local dealer or click onto the DUI home page below.
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